5 Phrases to Avoid During An Interview

January 9, 2015

In this series, we at Imarticus Learning give you tips and tricks to land your dream job in Investment Banking.

There are many situations in which people make the mistake of using informal, irresponsible and fairly inappropriate phrases during an interview. These small mistakes may cost you your career. Let’s have a look at most unhelpful phrases to avoid in front of a recruiter.

-“To be honest with you”

When job candidates use this phrase, it sends a mixed message. It can sound like you are are being honest now, but weren’t being honest before. It’s a good idea to leave this phrase out.

-“I can’t think of any real weaknesses”

It may be exhausting when an interviewer asks, “What are your weaknesses?” But that’s all the more reason for you to have an answer. If you’re caught off guard by one of the most well-known interview questions around, you’ll look unprepared, come across like you lack self-awareness and give the impression of one unwilling to have an honest discussion about whether or not you’re fit for the job. No matter how highly you think of yourself, there should still be plenty of things that you’d like to do better.

-“I don’t have any questions”

You might be spending eight hours a day (or more) in this job, at this company, with this manager and there’s nothing you’re wondering about? Interviewers want to know that you’re interested in the details of the job, the department in which you’ll be working, your prospective supervisor’s management style, and the culture of the organization. Otherwise, you’re signaling that you’re either not that interested or that you just haven’t thought much about it. So come prepared with thoughtful, intelligent questions about the work you’d be doing.

-“I think I can do this job”

Saying “I think” instead of “I know” or “I believe” subtly communicates a lack of confidence. So many job candidates are uncomfortable talking about themselves. Most people are afraid of being seen as bragging and that can keep them from sounding confident when they may be a perfect fit for the job.

-“I will try”

The word “try” really doesn’t convey meaning, especially when a potential employer inquires about your ability to do something, such as “Can you implement a new cost sheet format for the department?” If your answer is, “I will try,” you don’t sound confident. More importantly, the word ‘try’ sounds like you are setting yourself up to fail. Answer yes or no.